Christmas is just around the corner and Moberly Altrusa, in conjunction with City of Moberly Parks and Recreation Dept. once again have an exciting lineup of displays for the annual Christmas in the Park light extravaganza!

Janie Riley on behalf of Moberly Altrusa issues a vote of thanks to the Parks and Rec crew who have been working as hard as Santa's elves to get set up and ready to open the display area on Saturday .

Riley says. "There are a couple of surprises this year. Altrusa has been able to add several 'blow up' characters which everyone will recognize, and of course many of our favorite displays."

"Plus Larry Threlkeld and his Parks and Rec elves have gotten so caught up with the project that they came up with an exciting idea that will thrill everyone. We won't give away what it is, you will just have to come and see for yourself! Thank you Larry's elves!!"

Riley believes the biggest surprise of the display is the addition of Mrs. Claus! "Of course, Santa will be in his house over the weekends in December, but I think Mrs. Claus was getting upset as she could not always attend. This year, Altrusa convinced Mrs. Claus to help out and Mrs. Claus has convinced Santa to be at the park every night through Dec.22. "

The nights Santa is not in his house he will be at the beginning of the display route which is the road beside The Lodge in Rothwell Park.

"Santa has agreed to bring one of his famous sleds which will be placed in front of The Lodge (across from the public aquatics park) which is where Santa and Mrs. Claus will be to see and talk to everyone young and old, naughty and nice about Christmas," states Riley.

She adds, "Altrusans are excited, the Parks and Rec crew are exited, and we hope the public will be excited about these new additions and changes to Christmas in the Park. We hope you all come and visit as many times as you would like. And we all wish you a Very Merry Christmas!!"